Step 1

In a large cast-iron skillet, bring the olive oil to medium low temperature, and add the onions, salt and pepper

Step 2

Saute, stirring occasionally, until the onions have softened, wilted, and have turned a deep brown colour (be careful to keep an eye on the heat; you don't want to burn the onions - nice and slow is the way to go!)

Step 3

Once the onions are caramelized, transfer to a small bowl to cool completely

Step 4

In the meantime, prepare the spicy aioli dipping sauce be combining the mayonnaise, ginger, dried red chili flakes, and garlic in a small bowl - cover and place in the refrigerator

Step 5

Now that the onions have cooled, prepare the batter for the fritter.

Step 6

In a large bowl, add the flour, cornstarch, paprika, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and frothy

Step 7

Add the cooled caramelized onion to the flour mixture and lightly stir to combine

Step 8

Heat the vegetable oil in a cast-iron skillet

Step 9

Using metal tongs, gently pick up a small portion of the onions from the batter - aim for tablespoon size, and gently place in the hot oil

Step 10

You can fry three or 4 at the same time, but don't overcrowd the pan

Step 11

After two minutes, gently lift one of the fritters and check for a deep brown colour; if done, flip to cook the other side, otherwise, leave to continue frying for another minute

Step 12

Remove fried onion fritters and place on a paper towel-lined platter

Step 13

Continue frying until all onions/batter have been used

Step 14

Serve the onion fritters at room temperature with the chilled aioli dipping sauce